MOST players will take a little time to get used to their new surroundings and new team-mates after changing clubs.

But Wellington boss Derek Williams says that is certainly not the case for centre-back Gareth Thomas, who joined the villagers just after Christmas.

“He’s been cracking," said Williams. "I couldn’t have been more impressed by his attitude and the way he has slotted into the team with some outstanding performances.

"The way that he’s changed the dynamic of the back four has been the huge plus for us.

"He’s a great footballer and can bring it out with ease or pick a 50-yard pass out with no problem.

"That's a big difference from just lumping it up the pitch for the strikers to chase.

"He has been a real star since he joined us.”

Thomas, who started the season at Westfields, jumped at the opportunity to join Wellington and is very pleased with his decision to switch and at how well things have gone since.

“I just wanted a change," he said. "I’ve known a few of the boys from school and they encouraged me to come down to a few training sessions and I haven’t looked back.

"I’m really enjoying my football here and knowing the boys before I came has helped me settle in as quickly as I have.”

Another reason that encouraged Thomas to make the switch was having Williams back at the club as manager.

“I know Derek wasn’t here at the start of the season but the lads have said only good things about him and the way they’ve been playing since he’s come back," said Thomas.

"His style of management is something I enjoy.

"He’s quite laid back and takes in the big picture, unless we aren’t playing well, of course, and then he may lose his rag a little.”